10 grooming tips every man should know

Hairstylist and grooming expert Henry de la Paz will take you from hobo to handsome

From what to stock in your bathroom cabinet to how to stop that razor cut from turning into a bleeding mess, it’s the kind of advice your grand-daddy and hipster friend would agree on:

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Image: Prabhat Shetty

How often should you get a haircut?

Once every three weeks. Plan an ‘upkeep’ regimen with your stylist or barber so you always look well groomed. But remember: the shorter your hair, the more upkeep it needs.

Photo: Prabhat Shetty

How to plan a make-over

If you’re thinking of switching up your hair cut, craft a plan with your stylist to make it a gradual transition. It’s important to have a master plan, as you may require more upkeep and touch-ups every couple of weeks to start the process.

Photo: Arjun Mark

How to maintain your mug

It’s important to understand that your skin needs a little TLC to keep it looking its best. Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many new brands to choose from. Nivea face wash and moisturizer for men is an inexpensive, effective product. And you can’t go wrong with Kiehl’s Facial Fuel UV Guard sunscreen to keep those harmful UV rays at bay.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

When should you shave?

Whether you’re going for a smooth-shaven look or a groomed beard, it’s wise not to think about shaving the day of the event. Nicks and irritated skin doesn’t look good on anybody. Worried about a five-o’clock shadow? Head to a local barber in the morning for a professional shave. This is what they do best! And you’d be surprised by your bill.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

How to moisturise like a pro

Your face isn’t the only thing that needs moisturizing. Your body does too. Grab a fast-absorbing lotion and apply it preferably right after your shower, concentrating on rough patches like the feet and elbows.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

How to get rid of unwanted hair

Whether you’re cool with rocking the werewolf look or you prefer a clean slate, it’s important to establish a routine for unwanted hair — unless you want your chest and other areas to be irritated and itchy all night long. Opt for an electrical razor or trimmer or consider laser hair removal as an option depending on where the unwanted fuzz is.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

How to rock a full beard

Rocking the beard? No matter what style you choose, watch out for stray hairs. Take a razor to those unwanted stragglers.

Photo: Arjun Mark

How to avoid razor burn

Make sure your razor always has a clean, sharp blade. When a blade gets dull, it won’t move as smoothly across your face, which can cause you to apply more pressure, resulting in cuts, irritation and razor burn.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

How to stop the bleeding on a razor cut

If you’ve nicked yourself while shaving, the best remedy is to clot the cut with a stypical pencil, which you can get at any drugstore. The stick is an antihemorrhagic, meaning it closes blood vessels. If you don’t have one, put some of your deodorant on an earbud and hold it against the wound. Deodorant also contains aluminium chloride, which clots cuts. Not keen on sharing something between your face and armpit? Try dabbing a little lip balm on the cut instead.

Photo: Nirmal Jain

What to stock in your bathroom cabinet

Don’t get overwhelmed — the sooner you add these tools to your daily regimen, the easier your daily routine will become. 1. A hair product like styling cream (Try Oribe’s offerings) for a natural look with some support. 2. Matte paste for a controlled, ‘no product’ look. Redken and Kerastase make the best versions. 3. Tweezers for plucking out those stray, unwanted hairs. 4. Floss and mouthwash because nobody needs to know what you ate for dinner.